Question

What protozoan parasite is acquired by the oral route, but once ingested can readily cross the placenta causing an infection in the fetus that can result in a number of congenital defects?

1) Giardia intestinalis
2) Toxoplasma gondii
3) Cryptosporidium parvum
4) Cyclospora cayetanensis

Answer 1

Toxoplasma gondii is the protozoan parasite that can cross the placenta, causing congenital defects in developing fetuses when ingested by pregnant women.

Step-by-step explanation:

The protozoan parasite that is acquired by the oral route and can cross the placenta to cause infection in the fetus, resulting in a number of congenital defects, is Toxoplasma gondii. This parasite is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, which can be transmitted through cat feces, unwashed fruits and vegetables, or undercooked meat. Toxoplasmosis is particularly dangerous to pregnant women as it can lead to serious birth defects. Other protozoans like Giardia intestinalis, Cryptosporidium parvum, and Cyclospora cayetanensis can cause intestinal symptoms but do not affect the fetus in the same way as Toxoplasma gondii.